FAQ

Q: What do kids do at a Mad Science birthday party?

A: During the first 40-45 minutes, the Mad Scientist will engage children with amazing science demonstrations that are conducted with the help of your birthday child and guests. Some examples of experiments that may be included are: fitting a hardboiled egg into an impossibly small space, seeing flash paper disappear and powering a light bulb with a tesla coil. During the final 10-15 minutes of the party, the kids will make slime, silly putty or a superball to take home. Adding on a rocket launch or cotton candy will add 10-15 minutes to the length of your party.

Q: How far in advance do I need to book my party?

A: Our party schedule fills up quickly. We suggest you book well in advance to get the date and time you want. Generally, at least 3 weeks in advance is recommended.

Q: What do I need to do to make a reservation?

A: You can fill out an online request form by clicking on the “Book now” button. We will respond to your request one business day. You can also call us at (224) 676-1635 and we’ll be happy to schedule your party over the phone. No deposit is required to book your party.

Q: What time can I have my party?

A: Our standard party days are Saturdays and Sundays. Parties can start between 10AM and 5PM. Parties may be scheduled Monday-Friday based on instructor availability. All dates and times are subject to availability.

Q: Do I need to know the exact number of kids attending my party to book it?

A: No. All we need is an estimate of the number of children you expect to attend. We ask that you plan for the largest number of children expected. On the day of the party, you will be charged only for the number of kids that actually attend with the exception of parties with 31 or more children (21 or more for children 4-5yo), where you will be charged an additional $10 per child over the max.

Q: Do you have any themed parties?

A: All our themes revolve around science. If you have another party theme, discuss this during booking and we will do our best to incorporate your theme into the experiments and language that is used.

Q: When will the Mad Scientist arrive?

A: The Mad Scientist will arrive at least 15 minutes early to set up. He/she will be ready to start the show at the time you booked. It is best to start your party at least 15 minutes before your Mad Science show is scheduled to start, to ensure that all guests can see the entire Mad Science show.

Q: What kind of space is needed?

A: We ask that you have enough space for the Mad Scientist and for your guests to be comfortable as well. The kids can be seated on the floor or on chairs, several feet back from the table.

Q: How much space is needed for the rocket launch?

A: The Mad Scientist will need a medium to large sized back yard or open space to launch the rocket. If you are not sure whether you have sufficient space, you can always add the rocket launch and then the Mad Scientist will assess whether or not it is safe to launch the rocket on the day of the party. You will not be charged for the upgrade if the rocket cannot be launched safely.

Q: Will I have to provide the Mad Scientist with anything?

A: You will need to provide a table, around 6ft in size, for the Mad Scientist. We will also need access to water for set-up and clean-up and access to electricity for the cotton candy upgrade. Please let us know if your party location cannot have either of these.

Q: Once I have scheduled my party, can I make changes to it later?

A: Any changes to your party must be scheduled at least three business days before your party.

Q: Is it okay to have other activities going on while the Mad Scientist is performing?

A: The Mad Scientist will begin at the scheduled start time and continue until our portion of the entertainment is finished. We will not be able to stop for any other activities (ex. food or cake). Please plan accordingly.

Q: Can I have the phone number of my Mad Scientist?

A: We do not provide the Mad Scientist’s personal contact information. If you would like the Mad Scientist to call you on the day of your party, we can make a note for him/her to do so. If you need to reach us you may call the office on the day of the party and you will be directed to an emergency contact number.

Q: For what ages are your parties appropriate?

A: Our parties are appropriate for children between 5 to 12 years of age. Younger siblings generally watch, but do not actively participate in the party and should not make a take home project. We determine the number of attendees based on the number of children who make the take home project.

Q: When do I pay?

A: We do not require a deposit to book your party. At the end of your party, you will pay the Mad Scientist the appropriate total, adjusting for the number of children in attendance plus for the amount of goody bags you purchase. You can pay with cash, check, or provide authorization to charge the credit card we have on file.

Q: What is your policy on tipping?

A. If you think your Mad Scientist did a great job, a tip is very much appreciated. We do ask that you tip them separately from the party payment so that they may enjoy their tip immediately.